The points of issue
The first UK edition, Jonathan Cape 1974 (ISBN 0224010352), states 'First published 1974' on the verso with no later printing indicated, in original boards and dust jacket (jacket design by Craig Dodd). Some copies retain the elusive wrap-around band announcing it as joint winner of the 1974 Booker Prize. It was co-winner of the 1974 Booker with Stanley Middleton's 'Holiday'; Gordimer received the Nobel in 1991.
Is this the true first?
The UK Jonathan Cape 1974 edition is the true first. The US Viking edition followed in 1975.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Viking US edition is later and US-priced. No prominent book-club edition is associated with the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Conservationist a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The first UK edition, Jonathan Cape 1974 (ISBN 0224010352), states 'First published 1974' on the verso with no later printing indicated, in original boards and dust jacket (jacket design by Craig Dodd). Some copies retain the elusive wrap-around band announcing it as joint winner of the 1974 Booker Prize. It was co-winner of the 1974 Booker with Stanley Middleton's 'Holiday'; Gordimer received the Nobel in 1991.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The UK Jonathan Cape 1974 edition is the true first. The US Viking edition followed in 1975.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Viking US edition is later and US-priced. No prominent book-club edition is associated with the true first.
I have a first edition of The Conservationist — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.